The ARS 9th international cruise: Destination Asia

On April 17, 2026, the Armenian Relief Society’s 9th International Cruise embarked from Singapore aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas, with over 410 participants. The cruise was honored by the presence of ARS Central Executive Board Chairperson Ungh. Arousyak Melkonian; CEB’s cruise Committee representative, Ungh. Arminee Karabetian; ARS Cruise committee Chairperson, ungh. Shakeh Basmajian; and seven committee members.  

The ARS had organized a two-day tour in Singapore before the voyage began. Participants visited the city’s landmarks and the Armenian Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator, built in 1835. Everyone gathered beneath the church’s arches, their prayers and hymns bringing new life to a holy place that had not welcomed this many Armenians in so long. Moved by the moment, members of the ARS Central Executive and other participants made donations.